Just one Republican joined Democrats to approve Kagan's nomination and send it to the full Senate, where she's expected to win confirmation within weeks.

Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., broke with his party to cast the sole GOP "yes" vote on President Barack Obama's nominee to succeed Justice John Paul Stevens, who retired in June. The vote was 13-6.

"What's in Elena Kagan's heart is that of a good person who adopts a philosophy I disagree with," Graham said. "She will serve this nation honorably, and it would not have been someone I would have chosen, but the person who did choose, President Obama, I think chose wisely."

Obama called on the Senate to confirm her before Congress takes a monthlong summer break starting Aug. 7.

Most Republicans are against Kagan, arguing that she would put her political views ahead of the law.

Democrats praised Kagan, 50, who has served as the Obama administration's solicitor general, calling her a nominee who could bring consensus to a divided court.